Via Rail Delays Nonstop Montreal-Toronto Service Launch

Via Rail has announced the postponement of its planned nonstop train service between Montreal and Toronto due to “operational constraints” with its rail partner, Canadian National Railway (CN). The service was scheduled to commence on September 29, 2023, as part of a three-month pilot project aimed at evaluating demand for quicker travel between these two major urban centers.

The pilot project intended for select trains, specifically trains 60, 61, 68, and 69, to bypass stops in eastern Ontario, which includes cities such as Cornwall, Brockville, Kingston, and Belleville. This change would have allowed passengers to arrive at their destinations 30 to 40 minutes earlier than current schedules. Despite the anticipated benefits, the plan has faced significant opposition from local leaders and residents.

A spokesperson for Via Rail stated, “VIA Rail Canada regrets to announce that the planned pilot project for a direct Montreal-Toronto service has been postponed due to operational constraints with our rail partner, CN.” The spokesperson emphasized that the decision was made in light of the need to ensure reliable service.

Concerns regarding the proposed nonstop service were voiced by local politicians. Brockville Mayor Matt Wren expressed apprehension on social media, stating, “They call it a pilot project. We should be concerned it could get worse and need to speak up about these cuts.” Similarly, Conservative MP Michel Barrett criticized the decision, calling the proposed service “unacceptable” and highlighting that residents in rural areas would be underserved.

In response to the backlash, Via Rail confirmed it would continue to explore the feasibility of nonstop service between Montreal and Toronto in the future. “Via Rail will continue to work closely with CN to explore solutions that would allow us to test and implement this service in the future,” the company stated.

For passengers affected by the postponement, Via Rail is offering modifications to bookings at no extra cost. Train schedules will remain unchanged for the time being, with trains continuing to stop at eastern Ontario locations.

Here is the current schedule for the affected trains:
– **Train 61**: Depart Montreal at 06:45, stopping in Dorval, Cornwall, Kingston, Belleville, Oshawa, and Guildwood.
– **Train 69**: Depart Montreal at 16:39, stopping in Cornwall, Brockville, Kingston, Oshawa, and Guildwood.
– **Train 60**: Depart Toronto at 06:32, stopping in Oshawa, Cobourg, Belleville, Kingston, Cornwall, and Dorval.
– **Train 68**: Depart Toronto at 17:08, stopping in Oshawa, Cobourg, Belleville, Kingston, Brockville, Cornwall, and Dorval.

While the introduction of a direct service has been postponed, the ongoing dialogue between Via Rail and CN may pave the way for future enhancements in passenger rail services across Canada.